Should you use a gel moisturizer?

What Are Gel Moisturizers?

Gel moisturizers are water-based lotions that are lightweight in texture and easily absorbed into skin. They contain fewer emollients and oils than moisturizers that are cream-based. Gel moisturizers are compatible with a variety of skin types but typically their absence of oil makes them extremely compatible with oily and combination skin. This is because they do not add any extra oil to skin. Instead, they hydrate and moisturize the skin without leaving a film or residue which is especially important in oilier skin types that are prone to shine. Many gel moisturizers are formulated with hyaluronic acid which can deeply hydrate skin.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is commonly used in skin care products but what exactly does it do? “Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant which helps regulate cutaneous moisture levels,” says Dr. Angelike Galdi PhD, Chief Scientific Advisor of Garnier SkinActive’s skin care labs. “With age, the skin experiences a gradual decline in hyaluronic acid levels, reduction in hyaluronic acid size and loss of hyaluronic acid functionality. Extrinsic factors such as excessive UV radiation generate reactive oxygen species which can damage hyaluronic acid and exacerbate these events. The result is a decline in water content which directly impacts the biomechanical properties of aging skin, contributing to loss of elasticity, firmness and overall plumpness and volume.”

What Are Gel Creams?

Gel creams are another product in the market that can help moisturize skin though it might be hard for the consumer to know what the exact difference is between a gel and a gel-cream.

“A gel-cream is a hybrid formulation and texture which falls between a gel and a cream,” says Dr. Galdi. “It fits well for consumers looking for a texture that is richer and more nourishing than a gel, but lighter and more fresh-feeling than a cream. Gel creams can be suitable for all skin types. Please check the final product label to be sure.”

Benefits Of Gel-Based Moisturizers

1. Non-Oily Texture

Whether you have oily skin or just don’t like the feeling of having a thick cream on your face, gel moisturizers can hydrate without leaving a film. “Most gel moisturizers are formulated with hyaluronic acid, a higher water content and glycerin,” says Garnier consulting dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes. “These are perfect for people with oily skin or when it’s time to switch to a lighter moisturizer for warmer weather.” A gel-based moisturizer is easily absorbed by your skin so you won’t be spending time waiting until your skin dries or becomes matte.

2. Refreshing

Do you love that refreshing feeling of washing your face? Sometimes following that with a heavy emollient cream removes that feeling and weighs down your skin. Since gel moisturizers are largely water-based you can extend that fresh-faced, cooling sensation. This particularly comes in handy in the summer when temperatures are higher and you want to keep things light when it comes to your skin care.

3. Hydrating

Dehydrated skin is skin that lacks water rather than oil and since gel moisturizers are water-based, they can bestow hydration. This is particularly true if they are formulated with hyaluronic acid, which allows for more water retention in skin.

4. Plumping

On top of hydration, gel moisturizers can also have a plumping effect on the appearance of skin, which can make skin look more energized, youthful, and can make fine lines less apparent. A great example is Garnier SkinActive Miracle Anti-Fatigue Wake-Up Hydra-Gel Moisturizer. Formulated with 15 percent hydra-glycerin (a known humectant), hyaluronic acid and antioxidant complex of wild berry, Vitamins C and E, it can make your skin look fresh and rejuvenated with a healthy-looking glow. Use it to hydrate and plump up the look of your skin.

5. Stays Put

Moisturizers that are thick or oily can sometimes “slip” off of skin rather than staying in place. Gel moisturizers are easily absorbed and leave little residue, which can make getting out the door easier. It can also create the perfect base for your skin if you want your complexion to be hydrated before you apply make up. Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream for Dry Skin hydrates and reduces roughness in dry skin. Use it before you apply a concealer, foundation or bb cream to have a smooth complexion and create a hydrated base for your makeup.

6. Soothing

A gel cream can feel calming and soothing particularly after a day in the sun, a work out or when temperatures are hot. An added bonus is if you place your gel moisturizer in the fridge to get an extra cold boost to refresh your skin on a hot summer day.

7. Compatible With Sensitive Skin

If your skin gets angry easily, a gel moisturizer is also perfect for you. Use it to calm and cool sensitive skin and boost hydration.

8. Perfect For Summer

Many people shy away from thick creams in the summer. When the temperatures go up it’s easier to wear something more light and refreshing than a cream. Use a gel moisturizer if you want to have dewy, fresh skin without any residue and also want a product that can withstand hot temperatures without turning your skin into an oily mess.

Your Gel Moisturizer Skin Care Routine

Ready to start using gel moisturizer in your skin care routine? Make sure to apply gel moisturizer to freshly cleansed skin and you’re good to go. Remember to moisturize your skin twice a day so that it can maintain ideal moisture levels, have a healthy barrier function and look healthy.

1. Cleanse To Purify Skin

Whether you are cleansing your face in the morning or evening always aim to work with a clean base when you are starting or ending your day.

During the day you will be exposed to free radicals and dirt. You might be wearing makeup and your skin will sweat, so in the evening it’s crucial for you to cleanse. Once you have washed your skin or used a waterless cleanser such as lotion cleanser or Micellar Cleansing Water you will have a clean canvas upon which to apply your gel-based moisturizer.

During the night — even when you go to bed with freshly cleansed and moisturized skin — dead skin cells, sweat and oil can accumulate on your skin. Cleanse them off in the morning to reveal fresh and clean skin that’s ready to take on the day.

2. Hydrate With A Gel Moisturizer

Now that your skin is clean you can apply your gel moisturizer. Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream for Normal/Combination Skin is a lightweight moisturizer that can keep your skin moisturized for up to 24 hours. It can help your skin look and feel healthier by adding necessary moisture. Apply the gel-cream in a circular motion to your forehead, cheeks and nose until your skin has fully absorbed the product. You should also apply moisturizer to your neck and chest to make sure these delicate areas are also moisturized. If you’re applying this product at night you are all set. If this gel moisturizer is part of your morning routine make sure to follow this step with regular SPF, SPF-tinted moisturizer or BB cream with SPF for daytime to protect your skin from sun damage. A gel moisturizer can create the perfect base for any make up products to follow as it dries quickly and leaves no residue. You skin will look plump, moisturized and refreshed.

Gel moisturizers are a great way to moisturize your skin if you have oilier skin, if you want to go with a lighter product in the spring and summertime or if you want to hydrate your skin. There are a variety of formulations out for there for all skin types (even dry skin) so you should be able to easily make gel moisturizers part of your skin care routine. Skin hydration doesn’t always mean a thick cream; it can also be a super lightweight gel that will give your skin the moisture it needs for the day.